A roofer who fixed a Luton sanctuary’s cat house for free says “you have just got to be nice these days”.

Herts Advertiser: A picture of the roof before Darren Bell had repaired it. Photo: Up and Over Roofing.A picture of the roof before Darren Bell had repaired it. Photo: Up and Over Roofing. (Image: Archant)

Darren Bell, 29, from King Harry Park in St Albans, stepped in to fix the cat house roof at Cat Welfare Luton after his partner saw their plea for help online.

He said: “She pestered me to do it as she thought it was a good idea. She donated the money for the materials.

“It took two and a half hours, it was a bit tricky, but my mate and I did it.”

Since Cat Welfare publicised his generous act, Darren said he has had a massive response from the public.

Herts Advertiser: A picture of the roof after Darren Bell had repaired it. Photo: Up and Over Roofing.A picture of the roof after Darren Bell had repaired it. Photo: Up and Over Roofing. (Image: Archant)

“I have had so many responses, It’s just been really good and everyone is so happy.

“I definitely feel good about doing it. Over the moon!

“You have just got to be nice these days. It was not much of a big job, and it’s not just the money, it’s about helping people.”

Darren, who runs Up and Over Roofing, has told the shelter he will go back and fix other cat houses in need of repair. “As long as they make us cups of coffee!”

Cat Welfare Luton are a home-based voluntary rescue, which neuters feral cats and provides hand rearing and critical care.

Due to the nature of the cats the vet bills are sizeable, so they rely solely on donations to keep going.

Over the last few years they have built up support through their Facebook page and an Amazon Wishlist.

Cat Welfare Luton help around 250 cats every year, the majority of these are feral and street cats.

Founder Sally Ainsbury said: “We are immensely grateful to Hannah and Darren from Up and Over Roofing for spotting our appeal for help and volunteering the time and supplies.

“We could never have afforded to get the roof repaired and ultimately would have had to stop using the cat house meaning we could help 50 per cent fewer cats per year.

“The roof had been leaking for several months and was getting progressively worse.

“Darren and his work mate were friendly and professional and have done a perfect job. We would highly recommend them to anyone needing roofing work done.”

To find out more about the shelter, visit www.facebook.com/catwelfareluton or to find out about Darren visit www.facebook.com/upandoverroofing1/